Artificial ligaments for joint applications and including resistive retaining and end deforming characteristics

ABSTRACT

A ligament incorporated into a prosthetic joint exhibiting a plasticized, elongated and deformable material. A fibrous material is internally disposed within the deformable material, the fibrous material terminating in first and second enlarged bead portions arranged in proximity to enlarged pocket defined ends associated with the deformable materials. First and second bones define a joint region therebetween, the deformable end pockets and bead portions being inserted through associated holes defined in joint proximate locations associated with the bones, so that actuation of a projection location of the fibrous material causes the bead portions to outwardly deflect the end pockets, resulting in the ligaments being anchored in place between the bones.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/212,141 filed Sep. 17, 2008, which claims the benefit of ProvisionalPatent Application Nos. 60/972,903, filed on Sep. 17, 2007, andProvisional Application Ser. No. 61/031,187, filed on Feb. 25, 2008.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is concerned with artificial implants for use withboth natural and artificial human bones. In particular, the presentinventions discloses a number of ligament supports, such as are capableof substituting for human ligaments in an artificial implant. Theartificially constructed ligament provides for non deforming stretchingand contracting, such as is associated with natural ligaments andtendons, this assisting in maintaining the integrity of an jointestablished between first and second opposing bone ends of an artificialimplant.

In a further application, the present inventions disclose an improvedligament support configuration, such as are capable of substituting forhuman ligaments in an artificial implant. The artificially constructedligament includes a cup and cavity sealing arrangement, between a firstbone defined ball projection and an associated ball socket. Aninteriorly configured ligament, extending between an interior locationof the socket and an end surface of the associated projection, providesa measure of deformable and non-tear stretching and contracting, andsuch as is associated with natural ligaments and tendons, this assistingin maintaining the integrity of an joint established between first andsecond opposing bone ends of an artificial implant. The configuration isparticularly suited for use in replacement or rehabilitative knee jointassemblies, in one variation for the particular benefit of adolescents,and which provides a unique and dynamic joint design.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The prior art is documented with various types of prosthetic ligamentassemblies, these typically being provided with an artificial joint, thepurpose for which being to replace an existing joint and ligaments whichhas become worn through extended wear or irreplaceably damaged throughdisease or injury. One objective of such artificial joint/ligamentimplants, whether adapted for use with an existing bone remaining in thepatient or as a component of one or more skeletal implants whichincludes a built-in joint, is in providing a desired amount ofcushioning and restraining support when positioned in-situ. Examples ofexisting natural/synthetic engineered ligament and tendon articles,methods and assemblies include, among others, those set forth in VacantiU.S. Pat. No. 6,840,962, Parr U.S. Pat. No. 4,744,792, Li U.S. Pat. No.5,263,984, Dooris U.S. Pat. No. 7,101,398, Lo U.S. Pat. No. 6,190,411,Hays U.S. Pat. No. 7,329,281, Zimmermann U.S. Pat. No. 5,376,119, SklarU.S. Pat. No. 6,939,379, Fronk U.S. Pat. No. 5,004,474, Edberg U.S. Pat.No. 6,626,942, Hlavacek U.S. Pat. No. 4,792,336, Kapadia U.S. Pat. No.4,883,486, Hoffman U.S. Pat. No. 4,483,023, Semple U.S. Pat. No.3,973,277, McKernan U.S. Pat. No. 7,056,340, Ryan U.S. Pat. No.6,001,106 and, finally, Kenna U.S. Pat. No. 4,828,562.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first application, the present inventions disclose a ligament forincorporating into an artificial joint associated with an implant. Eachligament includes a plasticized, elongated and deformable material. Afibrous material is internally disposed within the outer deformablematerial, with the fibrous material terminating in first and secondenlarged bead portions arranged in proximity to enlarged pocket definedends associated with the deformable materials.

First and second bones define a joint region therebetween, withdeformable end pockets and bead portions being inserted throughassociated holes defined in joint proximate locations associated withthe bones. Actuation of a projection location of the fibrous materialcauses the bead portions to outwardly deflect their associated endpockets, resulting in the ligaments being anchored in place between thebones.

In a preferred application, the ligaments each include an outer urethanebody, with the fibrous material including at least one of a graphite, anylon, a polyester, and a cellulosic fiber strand material. Theligaments can also exhibiting any of a linear, an arcuate and acircular/ring shape.

In another sub-application, an alternately configured and press fitligament structure possesses an elongated body with laterally projectingand barbed side sections, the sections being “press fit” into engagementwith side disposed locations of a selected bone or pair of bones locatedin closely proximate fashion. The press fit ligament structure possessesan elongated body with laterally projecting and barbed side sectionswhich are “press fit” into engagement with side disposed locations of aselected bone or pair of bones located in closely proximate fashion.

In a further sub-application, a plurality of plasticized plugs coaxiallysecure an end-defined implant section over an elongate, open ended andinteriorly hollowed artificial bone. In another, an end section implantis engaged over an artificial bone, and exhibits undercut sectionsestablished in the outer annular bone, these inter-fitting with acorresponding and annular interior configuration associated with adepending skirt portion of the annular end implant section. Plasticbands can also be provided for securing the end-fitted implant sectionover the hollow bone.

In a further embodiment, the ligament is incorporated into theartificial joint associated with the implant and includes first andsecond bones defining a joint region therebetween. A lubricating plasticis defined upon an exposed face of at least one, and typically both, ofthe bones. One or more “dynamic” ligament portions extend from at leastthe lubricated plastic and secure to an exposed and opposing end face ofthe other of the bones.

The first bone typically exhibits a bulbous and ball shaped projectingportion, with the second bone exhibiting an interiorly recessed andthree dimensional socket receiving portion for receiving the ball shapedportion in seating fashion. The ligaments further each exhibit bulbousend projection portions, these extending from an interconnecting neckportion and secured to a surface of the lubricating plastic. The bulbousprojections secure into an interiorly formed recess defined in anopposing bone surface.

The lubricating plastic is secured to either of the bulbous projectionor interiorly formed recess and further includes opposing and matinglubricating plastic surfaces provided as ring-shaped components securedto opposing and coating surfaces of each of the bones, such that therings contact one another in a mating and relatively rotationalpermissive fashion and in order to promote effortless contact betweenthe exposed and opposing end surfaces. The ligament portions can alsoinclude a pair of crosswise extending ligaments secured to opposing andjoint defining surfaces associated with first and second artificial endplugs in turn mounted to the bones. In another application, a swivelablejoint assembly is provided in which a rotating flexible ligament ofsubstantial spool shape is arranged in a socket configuration between alower male end defining bone and an undercut support secured to an uppersocket defining bone.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference will now be made to the attached drawings, when read incombination with the following detailed description, wherein likereference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, andin which:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of artificial ligaments incorporated intojoint defining knee implant according to one embodiment of the presentinvention and further including opposing and mating lubricating plasticsurfaces for establishing effortless contact between opposing bone endsurfaces;

FIG. 2 is an end view illustration of a selected artificial implant boneaccording to FIG. 1 and showing the manner in which bore holes aredrilled at precise locations for receiving inserting ends of associatedligament supports;

FIG. 2A is a partial illustration of a selected ligament, such as shownin FIG. 2;

FIG. 2B is an illustration of an alternately configured and press fitligament structure, this possessing an elongated body with laterallyprojecting and barbed side sections which are “press fit” intoengagement with side disposed locations of a selected bone or pair ofbones located in closely proximate fashion.

FIG. 3 is a first illustration of a ligament sub-assembly, in apre-tensioned/anchored condition once opposite ends of the ligament arelocated through mounting drill hole locations associated with first andsecond opposing and joint defining bones;

FIG. 3A is a succeeding illustration to FIG. 3 and showing a selectedligament end arranged within a bone drill hole;

FIG. 3B is a further succeeding illustration to that shown in FIG. 3 andreferencing the fibrous/thread being progressively displaced in order tooutwardly deform the outer urethane material associated with theligament ends in biasing fashion against the arcuate inner walls of thebone drill hole;

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a ligament structure according to anotherembodiment and illustrating a plurality of ring-shaped ligaments;

FIG. 5 is an end view of a selected bone shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a semi-circular ligament, and such as canbe employed in the variant of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6A illustrates a circular shaped ligament according to a furtherpotential design;

FIG. 6B illustrates a modified version of the circular shaped ligamentshown in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7 is an illustration of an alternate mounting variant for securingan artificial ligament to first and second locations associated with aunique joint defining structure;

FIG. 8 is a sectional illustration of a further mounting configurationfor application to opposing inside walls of a selected bone according tothe present inventions;

FIG. 9 is an illustration of a plurality of individual configuredartificial ligaments according to the present inventions;

FIG. 10 is a cutaway illustration of a further example of a ligamentsupported implant and joint, and further showing a plurality of conduitpassageways formed into an end surface of a selected artificial bonecontaining a synthetic fluid reservoir, and which is micro-controlledfor discrete release of lubricant fluid s into the joint;

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a further variant similar to that shown inFIG. 10, and of a ligament supported joint configuration;

FIG. 12 is a cutaway view taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 10 andillustrating a plurality of plasticized plugs for coaxially securing anend-defined implant section over an elongate, open ended and interiorlyhollowed artificial bone;

FIG. 13A is an illustration of a first configuration of a plasticizedanchor and such as is shown in the embodiment of FIG. 12;

FIG. 13B is an illustration of an alternately configured anchor;

FIG. 13C is a still further illustration of another synthetic anchor;

FIG. 14 is an illustration similar to that shown in FIG. 10 of a yetfurther anchor bolt design utilized in the securing of an end definedimplant section over a bone, such as previously shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is an alternate embodiment for securing an end section over andartificial bone, and illustrating undercut sections established in theouter annular bone, these inter-fitting with a corresponding and annularinterior configuration associated with a depending skirt portion of theannular end implant section; and

FIG. 16 is a non-cutaway illustration of the embodiment of FIG. 15, andfurther showing the features of the plastic bands for securing theend-fitted implant section over the hollow bone.

FIG. 17 is an exploded view of a connective artificial ligamentsincorporated into joint defining knee implant according to oneembodiment of the present invention and including a first bone definedball projection and an associated ball socket for establishing, incombination with a connective ligament, effortless contact betweenopposing bone end surfaces;

FIG. 18 is an exploded plan view illustrating a further variant ofligament assembly and in which a lubricated plastic layer surroundingthe ball defined projection further includes an integrally formed,bulbous male end projecting ligament seating portion, this beingresistively snap-fit received into an associated located recess in afemale and additional bone defined socket cavity, for flexibly anddynamically retaining the first bone ball portion within the second bonesocket of a selected artificial implant bone;

FIG. 19 is an exploded plan view of a further configuration of ligamentassembly, similar to that shown in FIG. 2, and by which the arrangementof lubricating plastic layer and associated bulbous end ligamentprojection is switched to the female ball defined socket, thecorresponding male ball projection incorporating an interior defineddrill recess for resistively seating the ligament projection;

FIG. 20A is an illustration of a plurality of individual and smallersized ligaments extending between seating locations associated withopposing and joint defining bones, a lubricated plastic layer beingestablished between the bones and, in combination with the ligaments,providing a joint such as between tibia and fibula design bones;

FIG. 20B is an enlarged sectional illustration of an alternate ligamentassembly and which a plurality of ligament ends are formed within asanitary plasticized layer in turn defined upon a selected end surfaceof a bone;

FIG. 21 is an illustration of a knee joint assembly and illustrating aligament engaging portion extending from a plasticized layer associatedwith a first lower leg bone and seating within an interiorly drilled andresistively seating aperture associated with an upper femur bone;

FIG. 22 is a cutaway end view of a tibia bone, such as shown in FIG. 4,and illustrating an alternative arrangement of ligaments according tothe present inventions;

FIG. 23 is plan view of a further joint assembly and including a pair ofcrosswise extending ligaments secured to opposing and joint definingsurfaces associated with first and second artificial end plugs, and suchas which can be secured in retrofit manner to natural bones;

FIG. 24 is a modified end plan view illustrating connecting locations ofthe pair of ligaments relative to opposing bone end surfaces;

FIG. 25 is a similar illustration to that of FIG. 7 and showing analternate arrangement of bone and joint with stretchable compositeligaments;

FIG. 26 is a further cutaway view of a slightly alternately configuredjoint assembly with recess mounted ligaments;

FIG. 27 is an illustration similar to that shown in FIG. 10 andillustrating the manner in which the bone end plugs are secured to theretrofit machined bones and subsequently attached by a pair of crossextending (interlocking) stretch and secure ligaments;

FIG. 28 is a prior art illustration of a section of healthy regeneratingbone;

FIG. 29 is a prior art illustration of a section of deteriorating bone;

FIG. 30 is a further prior art illustration of a portion ofdeteriorating bone residing atop an underlying and rejuvenating bonelayer and associated inner bone marrow;

FIG. 31 is an illustration of a further variant of swivelable jointassembly and in which a rotating flexible ligament of substantial spoolshape is arranged in a socket configuration between a lower male enddefining bone and an undercut support secured to an upper socketdefining bone;

FIG. 32 is an enlarged sectional view of a modified spool shapedrotating and flexible ligament disposed between swivelable contactlocations associated with receiver/socket composite hardened plastic endplugs; and

FIG. 33 is an illustration of an alternate arrangement to that shown inFIGS. 15 and 16, and by which a differently configured hardened plasticend plug is secured to a sectioned end of a natural bone, within whichis contained bone marrow, the end plug further exhibiting a recessedinterior facing surface which is ribbed or otherwise irregularly formedso that marrow contact locations promote the growth of adhering healthybone.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to FIG. 1, a first embodiment is illustrated of anartificial ligament system incorporated into joint defining knee implantaccording to one embodiment of the present invention. The knee andligament embodiment featured generally at 10 exhibits first 12 andsecond 14 bones, these typically corresponding to a patient's upper andlower leg bones and which further define particularly configured andopposing/seating locations which is defined as a joint region 16.

As further understood, the bones 12 and 14 are typically artificialprostheses, these including such as plastic, metal or other suitablematerial constructions which exhibit the necessary properties ofdurability and resilience. Opposing and mating lubricating plasticsurfaces, see at 18 and 20, promote effortless contact between opposingbone end surfaces.

As will be further described with reference to FIGS. 3-3B, ligaments areshown at 22 and 24 (typically first and second pairs, totaling four areprovided, with only a single pair evident from this illustration). Theligaments are each typically constructed of a fibrous based central core(see at 26 in FIG. 1 and also as referenced in the example of FIG. 3),over which is molded an expandable urethane or other suitable material,and such that the ligament exhibits the concurrent properties ofsignificant durability, resiliency and strength, this including theability to stretch and dependably return to an initial length.

In each of the embodiments subsequently described, the plasticsincorporated both into the joint defining end bone faces, as well as theouter urethane or other deformable coverings associated with theartificial ligaments, are constructed of a sanitized or sterilizedmaterial and which may further include an integrally incorporatedantibiotic compound. The internal filament portions associated with eachligament design may further include such as graphite, other syntheticfibers including high strength polyester/nylon, as well asnatural/cellulose based materials, including in particular very finebamboo threads and which have been found to be extremely durable.

End locations of the ligaments include larger bead-like portions, see at28 and 30, these being connected to ends of the central fiber/filament26. Upon translating a central projecting location of the filament 26(see at 32 in FIG. 3), this in turn causes the bead portions 28 and 30to inwardly displace and outwardly deform end defined pockets, furtherat 34 and 36, associated with the urethane covering.

FIG. 2 is an end view illustration of a selected artificial implantbone, such as again at 12 in FIG. 1 and which illustrates a plurality ofbore holes, see pairs 38 and 40, drilled at precise locations forreceiving inserting ends of associated ligament supports, e.g. the beadportions 28 and 30. A particularly configured tool, such asincorporating an expandable and spherical grinding tip, is employed forgrinding the desired configuration of hole into the end or proximateside facing locations of both opposing bones, this in particularcontemplating forming a larger diameter interior location communicatedthrough a narrowed surface communicating channel. Upon snap-fitinserting of the urethane end pockets and each associated bead portion,subsequent expansion in the manner previously described causes the endlocation of the ligament to be securely anchored into the drill hole.

FIG. 2B is an illustration of an alternately configured and press fitligament structure, at 27, this possessing an elongated body withlaterally projecting and barbed side sections, at 29 and 31, and whichare “press fit” into engagement with side disposed locations of aselected bone or pair of bones located in closely proximate fashion. Theligament structure illustrated in this embodiment is intended forcertain applications, such as where there is a hairline crack or otherimperfection in an existing bone/implant application and it is desiredto repair or remediate the damaged area without requiring removal fromthe patient. As also shown, the spaced apart and barbed extending sideedges can be alternately configured, see at 29′ and 31′, in order toestablish a desired snap-fit engagement with a selected bone drillaperture. This can also entail a plurality of deflecting ridge/grippingportions or the provision of end deflectable and biasing locations foranchoring in place once passed through the depth of the bone wall.

Referencing again FIG. 3, a first illustration of the ligamentsub-assembly illustrates the expandable urethane end pockets in apre-tensioned, pre-anchored condition. As described, and once oppositeends of the ligament are located through the mounting drill holelocations associated with first and second opposing and joint definingbones, the tensioning of the central filament portion 32 of thesynthetic fiber strands, results in the expansion of the pockets (seeFIG. 3A). Referencing further FIG. 3B, a succeeding illustration to thatshown in FIG. 3 references the fibrous/thread 26 being progressivelydisplaced (and by drawing inwardly the bead end portions 28 and 30against the curvature of the urethane end pockets 34 and 36, in order tooutwardly deform the outer urethane material associated with theligament ends in biasing fashion against the arcuate inner walls of thebone drill hole.

Referring now to FIG. 4, an illustration is shown of a ligamentstructure according to another embodiment and illustrating a pluralityof ring-shaped ligaments 38, 40, 42, et. seq., securing first 44 andsecond bones 46 according to a further preferred application. The bones44 and 46 each include lubricated plastic defined end surfaces, at 48and 50, these defining an intermediate joint region.

The ligament structure of the rings 38, 40, 42, et. seq., is similar tothat previously described, and such as again including an outer anddeformable urethane material, within which is encased an innertranslating filament. Accordingly, and in one mounting variant, theligaments are arcuate (semi-circular at most), with opposite expandableends 52 and 54 seating in dedicated bone drill hole locations, thesealso being shown in the end view of FIG. 5 at 56 and 58 as sets ofholes.

Of note, and further referencing FIGS. 6-6B, the ligaments canexhibiting modified expanded ends that can also be reconfigured, such asis shown in FIG. 6B, such that they can be made to seat together (suchas by being configured as male and female engaging portions), and inorder to convert an arcuate shape ring with first and second boneanchoring ends as a dedicated circular or ring shaped ligament. FIG. 6Billustrates a modified version of the circular shaped ligament shown inFIG. 6A, and by which a snap fit engagement, see male end at 60 andassociated outer female end 62 is established for securing theartificial ligament in engaged fashion.

Referring now to FIG. 7, an illustration is shown of an alternatemounting variant for securing a reconfigured artificial ligament 64 tofirst 66 and second 68 locations associated with a unique joint definingstructure. Artificial bones are illustrated at 70 and 72 and generallycorrespond to an alternate joint defined structure, such as possibly anelbow structure and in which bone hole locations 66 and 68 againcorrespond to drilled locations through which bead end portions 74 and76 and corresponding urethane end pockets 78 and 80 are resistanceinserted, and subsequently deformed in the manner previously described,and such as through the translation of dedicated end defined fiberthreads of intermediate length, at 82 and 84. The central extendingportion of the ligament body 64 as such does not exhibit the fiberthreads, however the construction of the ligament body is such that itcan withstand the normal forces associated with the joint application inboth a dynamic and resilient fashion.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a sectional illustration of a further mountingconfiguration of a ligament associated with inside opposing surfaces ofa selected bone. In particular, the bone (again typically artificial butalso contemplating possible application to actual bones) illustrated incutaway includes wall portions 86 and 88. Drill holes, of a naturepreviously described, are effected at 90 and 92 associated with insidefacing locations of the bone wall portions 86 and 88 and utilizing anyspecialized medical drills and techniques which render possible thisdrill configuration. The ligament is illustrated at 94 and includesopposite and expandable ends 96 and 98 which, upon being engaged in afashion similar to that previously described, serves to assist orreinforce in maintaining the internal integrity of the bone structure.

FIG. 9 is an illustration of a plurality of individual configuredartificial ligaments, see at 100, 102, 104 and 106, according to thepresent inventions. In particular, each of the ligaments referencedcorresponds to a differently sized application for engagement intospecifically configured bone drill holes, such as for example in themanner previously described.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a cutaway illustration of a further example ofa ligament supported implant includes a plurality of conduit passageways108, 110, 112, these being formed into an end surface 114 of a selectedartificial bone 116. As will be further described in reference to FIGS.12 and 13A-13C, an implant section 117 is anchored to an end of the bone116, such as through the use of a plurality of anchoring portions.

The passageways communicate with a surface of the end secured implantsection 117, in turn anchored to the bone 116 such as by bolts orfasteners. A synthetic fluid reservoir 118 is contained within a hollowinterior of the bone 116 and is micro-controlled (see controllerrepresentatively shown at 120 with sensors) for instructing discreterelease of lubricant fluid s into the surface location 114 defining apart of the joint area. The surface 114 may further again include a lowresistance and antiseptic plastic/wear layer, this being continuallyaugmented by the microcontroller dispensed droplets (such as for exampleconstituting a ½ drop release on a daily basis. Additional features suchas ligaments are representatively shown at 122 and 124, and such as canbe constructed in a fashion similar to that previously described.

Referring now to FIG. 11, an illustration is shown of a further variant,similar to that shown in FIG. 10, and of a ligament supported jointconfiguration. In particular, an alternately configured end implantsection 126 is shown anchored to an end of a suitable and artificialbone, again at 116. The implant section 126 can correspond to any of anumber of suitable joint defining sections, and such as can be arrangedin opposing fashion with the arrangement shown in FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 further shows a cutaway view, taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 10,and illustrating a plurality of plasticized plugs or anchors, see at128, 130, 132 and 134, for coaxially securing an end-defined implantsection, again at 117, over an elongate, open ended and interiorlyhollowed artificial bone 116. When viewed collectively, FIGS. 10 and 12illustrate the annular defined space associated with the seating end ofthe implant section 117 (see also spaced apart inner wall 117′), theannular edge of the bone 116 seating in the space between the implantend walls 117 and 117′, with the bolt or fastener sections 128-134 beingsecured at the locations indicated.

Referring now to FIG. 13A, an illustration of a first configuration ofan alternately configured plasticized anchor, such as is shown in theembodiment of FIGS. 10 and 12, is referenced at 136. The anchor 136includes a flattened outer end 138 from which extends an elongated stemportion 140, this further including a plurality of spaced apart tangs142 and which extend in a fashion which biasingly engage the innerannular wall surfaces of the inner and outer spaced apart implant walls(see again at 117 and 117′) as well as the seatingly fitted annular bone116 disposed therebetween.

As further shown in FIG. 13B, an alternately configured anchor 144includes a similarly flattened end 146 and an enlarged tip 148 forresistively engaging against an inside surface of the implant wall 117′.FIG. 13C is a still further illustration of another synthetic anchor,see at 150, and which includes a likewise flattened first seating head152, and opposite extending and conically flared end 154 againcorresponding to an inner wall seating location for securing the implant117 to the associated bone 116.

FIG. 14 is an illustration similar to that shown in FIG. 10 of a yetfurther anchor bolt design utilized in the securing of an end definedimplant section, at 156, over a bone 158, such as similar to thatpreviously shown in FIG. 12. The anchor bolt is further shown at 160 andis likewise constructed of a synthetic plastic, including opposite endpositioned enlarged heads 162 and 164, which secure the spaced apart andannular extending rim locations 166 and 168 of the implant 156 to theopen annular edges of the bone 158. Of further note, the implant 156 canbe constructed of a molded plastic or other synthetic material, and mayagain include a lubricated joint defining surface 170, as well aspluralities of ligaments 172 and 174 which, in cooperation with afurther suitable bone, define a desired joint application.

Referring next to FIG. 15, an alternate embodiment is referenced forsecuring an end section implant, at 176, over an open interior andelongate artificial bone 178. This in particular involves the ability toundercut (e.g. machine/drill) sections established in the outer annularbone surface, see at 180 and 182. These undercut sections are configuredto inter-fit with a corresponding and annular interior configuration,see inwardly facing annular protrusions 184 and 186, associated with adepending skirt portion 188 of the annular end implant section 176. Acentral plug location 190 of the implant is dimensioned such that itextends into the interior of the bone 178 and, in cooperation with themating undercut and annular projecting locations, ensure a secure fit ofthe end-implant section 176 over the end of the bone 178.

Referring to FIG. 16, a non-cutaway illustration is shown of theembodiment of FIG. 15, this further illustrating the feature of theplastic bands, see at 192 and 194, for assisting in securing theend-fitted implant section 176 over the hollow bone 178. The bands caneither be surface located, as indicated in FIG. 16 or, alternatively,can be in-molded into the interior of the implant's annular skirtportion 188, as shown in FIG. 15 at 192′ and 194′.

Referring now to FIG. 17, an exploded view is shown of a connectiveartificial ligament, see at 200 incorporated into a joint defined (e.g.such as knee or elbow) implant according to one embodiment of thepresent invention. The arrangement of FIG. 17 includes a first bone 202defined ball projection 204 and an associated second bone 206 with aninteriorly defined socket 208 for establishing, in combination with theconnective ligament 200 extending therebetween, effortless contactbetween opposing bone end surfaces.

As further understood, the bones 202 and 206 are typically artificialprostheses, these including such as plastic, metal or other suitablematerial constructions which exhibit the necessary properties ofdurability and resilience. Opposing and mating lubricating plasticsurfaces (or rings), see at 210 and 212, are provided in such asring-shaped components secured to the respective bones 202 and 206, suchas in the case of lubricating surface (or ring) 210 around a neckportion 214 associated with the ball projection 204 and in the furthercase of the coacting lubricating ring 212 being secured to an encirclingrim location of the bone 206 located around the interiorly definedsocket 208. Upon assembly, the rings 210 and 212 contact one another ina mating and relatively rotational permissive fashion, and in order topromote effortless contact between opposing bone end surfaces.

As will be further described with reference to each of the succeedingillustrations the ligaments (again shown at 200 in FIG. 17) are eachtypically constructed of a fibrous based central core over which ismolded an expandable urethane or other suitable material, and such thatthe ligament exhibits the concurrent properties of significantdurability, resiliency and strength, this including the ability tostretch and dependably return to an initial length.

In each of the embodiments subsequently described, the plasticsincorporated both into the joint defining end bone faces, as well as theouter urethane or other deformable coverings associated with theartificial ligaments, are constructed of a sanitized or sterilizedmaterial and which may further include an integrally incorporatedantibiotic compound. The internal filament portions associated with eachligament design may further include such as graphite, other syntheticfibers including high strength polyester/nylon, as well asnatural/cellulose based materials, including in particular very finebamboo threads and which have been found to be extremely durable.

In the embodiment of FIG. 17, the ligament 200 (illustrated in partialcutaway) extends between a first connective location 216 associated withthe ball projection 14 of the bone 202 and a second connective location218 associated with the interiorly defined socket 208 of the second bone206.

FIG. 18 is an exploded plan view illustrating a further variant ofligament assembly and in which a lubricated plastic layer 220 surroundsa ball-end defined projection 222 of a first bone and further exhibitsan integrally formed, bulbous male end projecting ligament seatingportion 224, extending via an interconnecting neck 226. The bulbous endseating portion 224 is resistively snap-fit received into an associatedlocated recess 228 defined in a female and additional bone definedsocket cavity 230, for flexibly and dynamically retaining the first boneball portion within the second bone socket of a selected artificialimplant bone.

The associated bore hole, see again at 228 in FIG. 18, is drilled at aprecise location within the second bone receiving socket, such asthrough the use of a particularly configured tool, such as incorporatingan expandable and spherical grinding tip, and which is employed forgrinding the desired configuration of hole into the end or proximateside facing locations of both opposing bones. This in particularcontemplates forming a larger diameter interior location communicatedthrough a narrowed surface communicating channel, see at 232. Uponresistive snap-fit of the bulbous end portion 224 of the ligamentsecured to the such as the first bone lubricating layer 220, through theemployment of a suitable tool and concurrent with attaching the ball 222into the socket 230, the ligament is securely anchored into the drillhole.

FIG. 19 is an exploded plan view of a further configuration of ligamentassembly, similar to that shown in FIG. 18, and by which the arrangementof lubricating plastic layer 234 and associated bulbous end ligamentprojection 236 is switched to a female bone and ball defined socket 238.A corresponding male ball projection 240 incorporates an interiordefined drill recess 242 (similar to that previously described withreference to elements 228 and 232 in FIG. 18) and for resistivelyseating the ligament projection.

Referring now to FIG. 20A, an illustration of a plurality of individualand smaller sized ligaments is referenced at 244 extending betweenseating locations associated with opposing and joint defining bones 246and 248. A lubricated plastic layer 250 is established between the bones246 and 248 and, in combination with the ligaments 244, provide a jointsuch as between tibia and fibula design bones.

The ligaments 244 are further secured in recessed fashion within thebones, as shown in at 252 and 254 for bones 246 and 248, respectively,in FIG. 20. This can be accomplished such as by pre-forming orpre-manufacturing the ligament ends into the end-facing bone structure.Alternatively, and further referencing FIG. 20B is an enlarged sectionalillustration of an alternate ligament assembly shows a plurality ofligament ends 256 which are formed within a sanitary plasticized layer258 in turn defined upon a selected end surface of a bone 260. As inFIG. 20A, enlarged end seating locations 262 are referenced within theplasticized layer 258 and provide for fixed engagement of the ligamentsin dynamic fashion.

FIG. 21 is an illustration of a knee joint assembly including a ligamentengaging portion 264 extending from a plasticized layer 266 associatedwith a first lower leg bone 268, and seating within an interiorlydrilled and resistively seating aperture 270 associated with an upperfemur bone 272. The plasticized layer 266 is similar to those previouslydescribed in reference to earlier embodiments and can define a softerplastic cartilage with a substantially frictionless and supportingsurface, against which co-act associated projecting end locations 274and 276.

In a preferred embodiment, the plasticized layer 266 is supported inloosely supported fashion of its associated underside contoured surface278 relative to an opposing surface 280 of the lower bone 268. In thismanner, the anchoring of the integrally defined ligament portion 264extending from an associated upper contoured surface 282 of theplasticized layer 266, and within the upper bone 272, establishes adesired and substantially frictionless dynamic environment for acompleted joint assembly.

Referring to FIG. 22, a cutaway end view is shown of a tibia bone 284,such as shown in FIG. 20, and which further illustrates an alternativearrangement of ligament structure, see at 286 and 288. The cutawayligaments 286 and 288 can define such as a loop shape or other seatingarrangement for securing the associated bone 284 to an opposing bone notshown) in a desired and ligament defining dynamic environment.

Referring now to FIG. 23, a plan view is shown of a further jointassembly and including a pair of crosswise extending ligaments, at 290and 292, secured to opposing and joint defining surfaces associated withfirst and second artificial end plugs 294 and 296. As will be furtherdescribed in succeeding illustrations, the end plugs 294 and 296 areconstructed of a hardened plastic, or composite, material, and exhibitlubricious inducing cartilage end surfaces, at 298 and 300 respectively,and such as which can be secured in retrofit manner to natural bones.

As will also be described in additional detail, the end plugs 294 and296, as well as those shown in succeeding embodiments, are generallyillustrated in a cutaway cross section and it is understood andenvisioned that a three dimensional representation of the joint definingbone locations (while not practicable for purposes of the presentdescription) can also contemplate a 360 degree socket receiving cavity(see as shown at 300) associated with the first end plug 294 receivingin generally inserting fashion a male projecting end (at 302) associatedwith the second end plug 296. As is also shown in the modified end planview of FIG. 24, better illustrated are the connecting locationsassociated with the pair of ligaments 290 and 292 secured relative toopposing bone end surfaces.

Specifically, enlarged (bead) ends are associated with the ligaments, asreferenced at 295 & 297 for ligament 290 and at 298 & 300 for ligament292. The ligaments 290 and 292 are constructed in one non-limitingvariant off an elongated fiber/graphite composite material, with theenlarged bead shaped ends further being secured within recess cavities,these created by specialized bone drill forming bits at locationsproximate side or end surface interior locations formed in the end plugs294 and 296. The recess formed cavities also can include an enlargeddiameter recess interior interconnected to the surface of the bone endplug via a narrower diameter neck. It is also envisioned that, inaddition to drilling the desired cavities, unique and innovative formingtechniques can be employed for producing the desired ligament engaginglocations as part of the plasticized end plug. Although not clearlyshown in this illustration, it is also understood that the bead ends caneach also exhibit an end-directed plasticized displaceable component forsecurably maintaining the bead ends within their associated recessedcavities, and once press-fit inserted within the recess drill cavities.

Referencing FIG. 25, a similar illustration to that of FIG. 23 shows analternate arrangement of bone, see end plugs 302 and 304 with opposingand lubricant defining (soft plastic) cartilage defining surfaces, at306 and 308, and joint with stretchable composite ligaments 310 and 312.As disclosed in the preceding embodiment, the ligaments can be arrayedin a crosswise extending pattern and to thereby provide both a combineddegree of stretch/elastic give to the defined joint, as well asmaintaining the overall integrity of the joint assembly over prolongeddynamic use.

FIG. 26 is a further cutaway view of a slightly alternately configuredjoint assembly with recess mounted ligaments, see at 314 and 316, andwhich are secured in extending and cross wise fashion between a modifiedpair of end plugs 318 and 320. A series of mating peaks and ridgesestablished between the end opposing faces, these also includinglubricant cartilage layers 322 and 324, associated with a soft plasticmaterial overlaying hardened plastic substrates establishing the endplugs 318 and 320. The first end plug 318 further establishes a morepronounced interior (central) cavity 326, within which seats a generallycentral and inner projecting portion 328 associated with the second plug320. As explained previously, the end plugs are shown in sectionalcutaway, it being understood that they each define a substantially threedimensional article, with the inner portion 328 and opposing cavity 326establishing a universal and joint defining pocket therebetween.

As also previously described, enlarged bead-ends of the ligaments 314and 316 are installed in a similar previously described fashion, andsuch as in which a pre-formed and enlarged inner diameter hole receivesthe associated bend end in a press fit fashion, following which adeformable plastic may be optionally inserted, injected or linearlycompressed along end extending locations associated with the ligamentstrand, and to thereby retain the bead in securely in place. As furthershown in FIG. 27, illustrated is the manner in which the bone end plugs318 and 320 are secured to retrofit end machined bones (e.g. these beingnatural bones and which are shown at 330 and 332 with sectioned offends).

The hardened plastic end plugs 318 and 320 are fixedly secured to thesectioned ends of the bones 330 and 332. Following this, the ligaments314 and 316, which are already secured at first selected bead ends, aremanipulated such that the opposite bead ends are resistively press fitinto engagement with pre-formed recess cavity defined apertures, see asshown at 334 and 336, such that the joint assembly exhibits a pair ofcross extending (interlocking) stretch and secure ligaments.

Referring now to FIGS. 28-30, a succession of illustrations are shown ofknown bone structures, and such as are relevant to the incorporating ofthe joint plugs. Specifically, FIG. 28 provides a microscopicillustration of healthy bone growth associated with healthy bone marrowand such as which can assist in permanently affixing the plug insertingends of the joint defining hardened plastic components, see again asshown in FIG. 27 at 318 and 320 and which are inserted within thesectioned natural bone ends 330 and 332, further within which human bonemarrow resides for facilitating the desired natural bonding of the plugto the bone. FIG. 29 in contrast is a prior art illustration of asection of deteriorating bone, whereas FIG. 30 is a further prior artillustration of a portion of deteriorating bone residing atop anunderlying and rejuvenating bone layer and associated inner bone marrow.

Referring now to FIG. 31, an illustration is shown of a further variantof swivelable joint assembly and in which a rotating flexible ligamentof substantial spool shape 338 is arranged in a socket configurationbetween a lower male (or receiver) end defining bone 339, includingcomposite hard plastic end plug 340 and an undercut support 342 securedto an upper socket defining bone 343 further including a likewise hardplastic arranged in a generally bowl-receiving shape 344. Thearrangement shown in FIG. 31 can depict such as a hip or shoulder joint,and in which a desired degree of combined universal and rotatablesupport is established by the artificially constructed joint. As shownin previously described embodiments, opposing surface locationsassociated with the composite hard plastic bones 340 and 344 furtherinclude composite soft plastic surfaces 346 and 348, the first hardenedplastic plug 340 further including an extending stem portion which issecurably mounted within an interior associated with the bone 339,whereas the second bowl shaped hardened plastic is secured via adhesivesor a naturally ribbed or irregularly shaped surface for promotingnatural bone marrow incorporation and adhesion to the upper bone definedsocket 343.

The undercut support 342 is further provided in a generally knob-shapeor configuration, and which can also be constructed of a suitabledurable plastic or like composite material, and which is secured withinan aperture formed through the upper saucer shaped bone 343 andassociated hardened plastic 344. The rotating flexible (e.g. spoolshaped) ligament 338 is swivelable both in respect to the upper locatedundercut support 342, as well as the recessed (e.g. press fit) mountinglocation associated with the lower male defining plug 340. In apreferred application, the knob shaped undercut support can also rotateindependently or in unison with the spool shaped ligament 338.

Progressing to FIG. 32, an enlarged sectional view is shown of a furthervariant of spool shaped rotating and flexible ligament, at 350, disposedbetween swivelable contact locations associated with a modified andcomposite hardened plastic lower installed end plug 352 and an upperhardened plastic end plug 354. The spool shaped ligament 350 differsfrom that previously identified at 338 in that a first exterior layer356 is applied over a second core material 358. In one preferredapplication, the exterior layer 356 is a softer/cushioning material, ascompared to a hardened core 358. It is also understood that the materialcompositions can be reversed with the core incorporating a softermaterial and in comparison to a hardened outer layer, this providingvariances in the performance characteristics of the universal joint inuse.

Finally, and referring to FIG. 33, an illustration is shown of analternate arrangement to that shown in FIG. 31 or 32, and by which adifferently configured hardened plastic end plug, likewise generallyspool shaped as shown at 360, is secured to a sectioned end of a naturalbone 362, within which is contained bone marrow 364. An associated endplug 366 further exhibits a recessed interior facing surface 368 whichis ribbed or otherwise irregularly formed, and such that marrow contactlocations promote the growth of adhering healthy bone. The plug 360 isfurther illustrated in a recess cavity secured (or press fit) fashionwithin an exposed end face location of the hardened plastic plug 366,and over which is applied a softer plastic cartilage defined surface370. As is further shown in FIG. 33, an annular end face of the plug 366can exhibit an interior notched recess 372, this being configured anddimensioned to seatingly engage over the exposed and sectioned end (seeat 374) of the retrofitted bone 362, at which point the interiorlycontained marrow 364 initiates its natural bonding action between thehardened plastic plug 366 and the bone 362.

Having described my invention, other and additional preferredembodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which itpertains, without deviating from the scope of the appended claims.

1. A ligament adapted for use in a joint established between first and second bones, said ligament comprising: an elongated body constructed of a plasticized material and terminating at opposite ends in deformable pockets; a filament extending within said elongated body and connecting at said opposite ends in to enlarged beads seated within said deformable pockets; said filament including an intermediate projecting portion extending through said body and connecting to said beads; and said beads and associated pockets adapted to being resistively anchored within undercut profiles formed into joint defining surfaces of each bone such that, outwardly displacing said central projecting portion of said filament causes said beads to inwardly displace against said pockets so as to deform said pockets around said beads and within the undercut profiles, said ligament establishes a dynamic and resilient connection between the bones.
 2. The invention as described in claim 1, said ligament further comprising an outer urethane body.
 3. The invention as described in claim 1, said filament further comprising at least one of a graphite, a nylon, a polyester, and a cellulosic fiber strand material.
 4. The invention as described in claim 1, said plasticized material having a specified shape and size and further comprising an antimicrobial plastic. 